The owner of the Brass Elephant announced about a week ago that the restaurant was closing. When we heard about it, everyone in the newsroom was really surprised. It’s always been such a popular restaurant. As we were talking about it – more names of restaurants that were either closing or had closed popped up – Ixia, Jordon’s Steakhouse, Boccaccio, Fin, Bicycle, and a favorite of mine, Dogwood. Last night I was watching our 6 o’clock news and I saw a story on two more causalities of the economy, Blue Sea Grille and Babalu.
I know that the economy is bad and many businesses are struggling, but I find this so disappointing. Anytime a business closes it’s a shame, but a lot of these restaurants were unique, fun places with great food. Don’t get me wrong, I eat out a lot less than I used to, so I understand that a lot of people are eating at home. Maybe it’s because a very close friend of mine and her husband own a restaurant so I am aware of how much work, money, and effort goes into running a restaurant. It just seems like such a shame. After all, eating out is fun, often times a celebration. But it’s also expensive.
All the same things can be said for any businesses that can’t survive our economy. I will never forget Jamie Costello’s reaction to Lauman’s Furniture closing. He asked “Where do you go to buy furniture?” Certainly there are other places to shop, but are options become slimmer and slimmer the more businesses close.
Have you had a favorite store, business or restaurant close? Feel free to leave your comments below.
